As more and more people discover its potential for adrenaline-pumping fun, ziplining is growing in popularity around the world. Perhaps that explains why new zipline tours are opened up regularly in every nook and cranny of the globe, with many more sure to come. Whether you’re a dedicated fan of ziplining or a newbie who’s eager to learn the ropes, the following five courses are all excellent venues for this most exciting of activities:
1. The ZipRider, Alaska
The small settlement of Hoonah in Alaska is home to one of the world’s longest ziplines, the famous ZipRider. This formidable ride lasts upwards of 90 seconds, and will take you through a mile-long course that includes a 1,300-foot vertical drop. Up to six riders can take off simultaneously in parallel rides, thus making this zipline an excellent choice for group gatherings. And nothing can beat the unforgettable views of Hoonah’s tree-covered mountains and the ocean below.
2. The Canyon Flyer, Australia
Enjoy a zipline tour in Australia by booking a ride on the Canyon Flyer. Consisting of 7 huge zip lines that can reach speeds of more than 70 kilometers per hour, this zipline tour is conveniently located inside TreeTop Challenge, Australia’s premier adventure theme park. What’s more, the entire tour takes almost 3 hours to complete, ensuring a truly memorable experience that’s sure to stick with you in time.
3. Dragon’s Breath, Haiti
Catering mostly to passengers on Royal Caribbean cruises, this is the world’s longest zipline over water. After a brief orientation, which includes a practice session on a shorter zipline, you’ll be drive to the take-off point, located 500 feet above the beaches of Labadee. From there you’ll soar mightily through the air for more than 2,600 feet until landing at Dragon’s Breath Rock . Absolutely astonishing.
4. Zip 2000, South Africa
Surpassing Alaska’s ZipRider in length, this incredible zipline tour takes you on a 6,500-foot ride above the South African grasslands. Heights vary wildly between 3 meters and 280 meters, as do speeds, which can reach an incredible 140-160 kilometers per hour at the tour’s peak. The riding is done in the so-called “Superman” position, which allows for an even more exciting overall experience, making you truly feel like a bird in flight. Not for the faint of heart.
5. Mokai Gravity Canyon’s Flying Fox, New Zealand
Speaking of which, the zipline tour that popularized the “Superman” stance is none other than New Zealand’s Flying Fox. Despite boasting a more measured total distance of only 3,600 feet, the Flying Fox ranks first as far as speed goes, with riders being able to hit 160 kilometers per hour at certain points. What’s more, the zipline tour also runs back and forth a couple of times, allowing you to really take in the magnificent sights below.
And so you’ve reached the end of our countdown of the five zipline tours that you must experience in your lifetime. As one of the world’s most unique activities, ziplining offers the thrill of soaring through the air over some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. It’s something that deserves to be tried at least once by everyone who craves a little more excitement in their lives.
